Long Curtain Rods Elevate Your Living Room Style

When selecting window treatments for your living room, don't underestimate the impact that long curtain rods can have. Extending your rods beyond the window frame on each side adds architectural interest and makes the room feel more spacious and airy. The right long rod and curtain pairing can elevate the style of any living room.

Keep reading to learn why you should choose long curtain rods for your living room and how to implement them with style.

Benefits of Long Curtain Rods in Living Rooms

Here are some of the top reasons long rods are a great choice for living room windows:

• Create an illusion of height and space - Rods that extend 12-18 inches beyond the window frame on each side trick the eye into perceiving a taller and wider window.
• Allow more natural light into the room - Longer rods enable you to hang sheer curtains behind your main drapes which filter light through during the day.
• Provide flexibility to hang curtains wider or fuller - More rod space means you can hang rippled, ruffled or extra wide styles if desired.
• Visually expand and balance the proportions of the room - Long horizontal lines balance out tall walls and make the room feel larger than it is.

When used correctly, long curtain rods can make a living room feel bright, expansive and perfectly proportioned.

Considerations When Choosing Long Curtain Rods

To ensure you purchase the right long curtain rods for your living room, keep the following considerations in mind:

• Window measurements - Add 12-24 inches on each side to find the ideal rod length for your windows.
• Room size - Make sure the rod length enhances the room instead of overwhelming it.
• Curtain length and fullness - Allow space for floor-length or extra full curtains to stack nicely.
• Mounting location and height - Mount above the window frame or ceiling height for optimal effect.
• Rod type, diameter and finishes - Choose a style that coordinates with your room's decor.

Carefully thinking through these factors will ensure your long curtain rods fit properly, work with your curtains, and give you the look you want.

Hanging Long Curtain Rods Correctly

To help your long curtain rods look their best, follow these professional hanging tips:

1. Determine optimal rod length - Measure window width and add 12-24 inches on each side for ideal extension beyond the frames.
2. Select proper mounting brackets - Choose brackets that match the rod's diameter and are rated for its length and weight.
3. Install brackets level and spaced correctly - Place brackets 12-18 inches from the ends with additional supports every 3-4 feet along the length.
4. Attach rod securely avoiding sagging - Insert rods fully into brackets and tighten screws to prevent drooping in the center.
5. Hang curtains to proper floor length - For floor-length curtains, the rod's height will need adjustment.

With the right brackets, supports, and technique, you can install long curtain rods that enhance your living room instead of distracting from its decor.

Style Tips for Long Curtain Rods

Once you've determined the proper length, take these style tips into account for living room window treatments:

• Go for floor-to-ceiling height for a dramatic, theatrical effect.
• Extend 12+ inches beyond window frames for optimal expansion of space.
• Complement the style of windows and room - ornate rods for traditional spaces or slim rods in modern rooms.
• Mix metals and finishes for visual interest - gold rod with black iron brackets.
• Layer curtains for texture and fullness - sheers behind opaque panels.

Thoughtfully styling your long curtain rods using these tips elevates the whole look of your living room.

Long Curtain Rod Options for Living Rooms

From standard lengths to extra long extendable rods, here are some great options:

• Tension rods - Easy install for renters, range of lengths up to 160".
• Double rods - Allow innovative layering of sheers and drapes.
• Extruded rods - For a seamless floor-to-ceiling look, up to 288" long.
• Finials and brackets - Match or contrast rod metal finishes.
• Custom-cut rods - Get exact lengths needed for extra wide spaces.

With all the choices available today at retailers like Wayfair and Kirsch, you can easily find long curtain rods to fit your living room.

When selecting curtain rods for your living room, resist the temptation to simply match the window width. By purchasing rods 12-24 inches longer on each side, you can evoke a feeling of expanded space with height and width.

With the right rod length, optimal mounting placement, and stylish coordination with your room, long curtain rods can take your living room from basic to beautiful. Floor-to-ceiling draperies on an elegantly extended rod make a striking style statement and balance out tall vertical space.

For living rooms with average height ceilings, extending your curtain rod ends beyond the window frames by over a foot on each side creates breadth. The rod itself becomes an architectural feature that draws the eye outward, opening up the room. Pair extended rods with floor-length curtains or layered panels for enhanced elegance.

Longer rods also give you the flexibility to hang wider curtains if desired. Ruffled or billowy styles need ample space to stack attractively. Sheer behind opaque panels also requires room to overlap neatly.

Finally, don't underestimate the power of natural light. Long rods let you hang both sheers and drapes to filter the light perfectly. Light control options paired with enhanced spacial proportions give your living room an instantly elevated ambiance.

The extended sleek line of a long rod makes ceilings appear higher as your eye follows the rod width. Thoughtfully hung curtains, whether floor-length, rippling or sheer allow abundant natural light to infuse the room with brightness and visual expansion. It's amazing what an impact lengthening your curtain rods can make.

You can choose rods that maximize the potential of your living room. Take the time to find the right length, hardware and mounting placement for your space. Thoughtfully layer and style your window treatments. By extending your rods and curtains to their full advantage, your living room is sure to go from basic to beautiful.